For all the headlines about the looming shortage in crude oil, Japan faces a more immediate hit to its industrial supply chain from a little-known petroleum by-product.
Multiple Japanese petrochemical firms have announced production cuts in recent days on worries the Middle East conflict will strain supplies of naphtha, a vital component for plastic manufacturing.
The curbs point to a brewing crisis that could stunt production and pressure earnings across sectors from food to technology.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.